Modular frames for arrangement and orientation of geometric solids

ABSTRACT

Modular frames for instructional use that provide secure mounts for geometric solids are presented. Some contemplated modular frames can be assembled into three dimensional modular devices and are particularly suitable for instructional purposes. Modular devices comprising two or more frames could be coupled via a clip in two or more different configurations. Containers including conductive material and configured to provide a Faraday cage around their contents are also provided.

This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to, U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/258,361, filed on Sep. 7, 2016, which isa continuation of, and claims priority to, U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/080,585, filed on Nov. 14, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,466,228,which is a continuation-in-part of, and claims priority to, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/677,216, filed on Nov. 14, 2012, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/559,576, filed on Nov.14, 2011. This and all other extrinsic materials discussed herein areincorporated by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or useof a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary tothe definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that termprovided herein applies and the definition of that term in the referencedoes not apply.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention is educational devices and tools, morespecifically educational devices and tools for securing and orientinggeometric solids, crystalline solids, or other regular structures.

BACKGROUND

Numerous objects made by nature and by man can demonstrate interestingcollective effects that are not observed in those objects when inisolation. For example, a set of lenses, refractive crystals, or magnetscan be arranged in such a way as to produce phenomena not observed forany one member of the set, and different arrangements of such elementscan reveal different collective effects. While numerous stands or mountsfor individual elements are available, tools for the study orinstruction of such collective effects are lacking.

Attempts have been made to provide devices that provide instructionaltools for the collective behavior of multiple elements. For example,U.S. Pat. No. 6,382,982 discloses a device that permits arrangement ofvarious optical elements in different ways in order to study theircombined effects. The disclosed devices, however, arrange such opticalelements along a linear track, and do not provide for the study of morecomplex, three dimensional arrangements. U.S. Pat. No. 2,716,292discloses another instructional device that utilizes a series of planarplastic sheets to support spherical elements that represent atoms. Thedevice is adaptable to display a variety of three dimensional crystallattice structures. The disclosed elements, however, are notinteractive, and if they were the closed arrangement of supportivematerial between the elements could potentially interfere with theirinteractions.

Devices that can provide relatively complex three dimensionalstructures, such as those disclosed in International Patent ApplicationNo. WO 02/055168A1 and International Patent Application NoWO2008061359A1, are also known. The devices disclosed in theseapplications provide modular components that can be assembled into threedimensional structural shapes that include open regions. Similarly, U.S.Pat. No. 7,780,499 discloses a set of modular components that utilizecomplementary and reversible connectors to form complex threedimensional shapes. The suitability of such structures for securing andprotecting objects, however, is not clear.

While the above cited art discusses various aspects of securinginteractive instructional elements and in providing support for complexthree dimensional structures, they each fail to provide a desired levelof support, safety, and interactivity to support their use asinstructional tools for learning about the collective actions ofinteractive elements oriented in three dimensions. Thus, there is stilla need for improved modular frames for supporting, orienting, and safelyprotecting such elements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and methods inwhich a modular frame provides for at least one of securing andorienting one or more geometric solids (for example, a crystal or acrystalline solid), preferably possessing at least one vertex and oneedge. Such an apparatus, system, or method can serve as an educationaltool utilized in the demonstration or investigation of effects realizedby the placement or orientation of such a geometric solid relative toits environment. Similarly, embodiments of the inventive concept canserve as educational tools utilized in the investigation of effectsrealized by the placement or orientation of a plurality of geometricsolids relative to their environment or to each other. The frame caninclude at least one vertex saddle configured to receive a vertex of ageometric solid. The frame can further comprise at least one edge strutthat can couple with the saddle in a reversible manner via a firstfastener. Such an edge strut can be configured to cover or conform to atleast a portion of an edge of a geometric structure. In someembodiments, the frame can include multiple saddles and strutsconfigured to hold a tetrahedral solid or other geometric solid of anysuitable shape (e.g., trihedral, icosahedron, cube, rectangular cube,sphere, ovoid, etc.). Further, a frame of the inventive concept can bemodular; such a frame can be configured to mate with at least one of asupport, a frame, a frame component, or a portion, multiples orcombinations thereof.

It is contemplated that a single set of vertex saddles (e.g., 2 saddles,5 saddles, 10 saddles, etc,) and edge struts (e.g., 1 strut, 3 struts, 5struts, 10 struts, etc.) can be used to hold different geometric solidshaving different dimensions and shapes. For example, four vertex saddlesand six edge struts can be coupled to one another to hold a singletetrahedron crystal. Such a frame can then be readily modified by a userto hold a cubical crystal. For example, the four vertex saddles and sixedge struts can be uncoupled, then four additional vertex saddles andsix additional edge struts coupled around the cubical crystal.

In another aspect of the inventive subject matter, a modular frame forscientific instructional use comprises upper and lower sub-framecomponents (top and bottom portions, respectively) configured toremovably fasten to one another to at least partially enclose a crystalor other geometric structure. Where the geometric structure comprises acrystal having a truncated and chamfered tetrahedron shape (as shown inFIG. 1A), the modular frame could advantageously include four vertexsaddles and six edge protecting frame arms, such that the crystal isprotected at least along its vertices and edges, while faces can bepartially exposed.

It should be appreciated that the vertex saddles and frame arms could beprovided by one or both of the sub-frame components. It should also beappreciated that a vertex saddle or frame arms could be formed by thecoupling of two or more sub-frame components.

Each sub-frame component could removably attach to another sub-framecomponent via any commercially suitable coupler or fastener (e.g.,snaps, clips, clasps, etc.). For example, one sub-frame could comprise aplurality of hooked protrusions around a perimeter, while a differentsub-frame comprises a plurality of catches sized and dimensioned to matewith the hooked protrusions. In such an embodiment, the hookedprotrusions could comprise a material and thickness having a sufficientflexibility such that each of the hooked protrusions could slide intothe plurality of catches. The material could also be sufficiently rigidsuch that the sub-frames remain coupled with one another until a userforcibly slides a protrusion away from its respective catch.

In another aspect of the inventive subject matter, a modular devicecomprises two or more modular frames coupled with one another via one ormore clips. Each modular frame could comprise at least one clipaccepting portion sized and dimensioned to receive a clip. The clipaccepting portion(s) could comprise a plurality of recesses,protrusions, or a combination thereof, and the clip could comprisecomplementary recesses, protrusions, or a combination thereof. Forexample, where a clip accepting portion comprises four recesses on afirst side and four recesses on a second side, the clip coupled comprisefour complementary protrusions on a first side and four complementaryprotrusions on a second side.

It should be appreciated that each frame and each sub-frame component(or portion of a frame) could comprise any suitable number of vertexsaddles (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or even more), frame arms(e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or even more), clip receivingportions (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or even more), or couplersor fasteners (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or even more). Itshould also be appreciated that a modular device of the inventivesubject matter couple comprises any suitable number of frames coupled toone another.

A modular device of the inventive subject matter could comprise two ormore frames coupled together via one or more clips or other couplers.Preferably each frame comprises a clip receiving portion (e.g., arecessed portion of a frame) and a corresponding clip that is sized anddimensioned to fit snugly in the clip receiving portion such that theclip appears to be, and could even be, a cutout from the frame itself.The clip could advantageously be used to cover a clip receiving portionto create a smooth outer surface (e.g., not exposing a recessedportion). Additionally or alternatively, the clip could be used toremovably attach two frames by having a first end coupling with aportion of a first frame's clip receiving portion, and a second endcoupling with a portion of a second frame's clip receiving portion.

One should appreciate that a modular frame of the inventive subjectmatter could comprise any suitable size and shape for holding anysuitable geometric solid. While the disclosure herein is primarilydirected towards geometric solids having a truncated and chamferedtetrahedron shape, a modular frame could be sized and dimensioned tohold a spherical solid, cube shaped solid, rectangular cube shapedsolid, prism shaped solid, cylindrical solid, or any other suitablesolid.

In yet another aspect of the inventive subject matter, a storagecontainer or box comprises a lid portion and a bottom portion, each onecovered in at least one conductive material (e.g., copper, silver, gold,conductive polymer, wire mesh, etc.). The lid portion can pivot, slide,or otherwise move relative to the bottom portion, and in some positions(e.g. when forming an enclosed or nearly enclosed cavity) canelectrically couple to the bottom portion to form a conductive framearound an item (or a portion thereof) enclosed within the storage box(e.g., at least partially within a cavity surrounded by the lid portionand the bottom portion). In some embodiments of the inventive conceptthe storage box can form a faraday cage around at least a portion of thestorage box interior when the lid portion is substantially or completelyclosed.

Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventivesubject matter will become more apparent from the following detaileddescription of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanyingdrawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a modular frame ofthe inventive subject matter.

FIG. 1B is another perspective view of the modular frame of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a base of theinventive subject matter.

FIG. 2B is another perspective view of the base of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a schematic of an embodiment of a fastener of the inventivesubject matter.

FIG. 2D is a schematic of another embodiment of a fastener of theinventive subject matter.

FIG. 2E is a schematic of yet another embodiment of a fastener of theinventive subject matter.

FIG. 3 is a partial view of an embodiment of a modular frame of theinventive subject matter having two sub-frames coupled together via edgestruts.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an embodiment of an edge strut of theinventive subject matter.

FIG. 4B is another perspective view of the edge strut of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is yet another perspective view of the edge strut of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a vertex saddle ofthe inventive subject matter.

FIG. 5B is another perspective view of the vertex saddle of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is yet another perspective view of the vertex saddle of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular frame of theinventive subject matter having four sub-frames.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular frame of theinventive subject matter having eight sub-frames.

FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of container of the inventive subjectmatter.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a frame of theinventive subject matter.

FIG. 9B is a side view of two frames of the inventive subject matterjoined edge to edge.

FIG. 9C is an enlarged view of two frames of the inventive subjectmatter joined edge to edge, showing the connection.

FIG. 9D is an overhead view of two frames of the inventive subjectmatter joined edge to edge.

FIG. 9E is a perspective view of two frames of the inventive subjectmatter joined face-to-face.

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B depict clips of the inventive subject matter, FIG.10A shows a perspective view of a spring clip. FIG. 10B shows aperspective view of a tension clip.

FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of 10 frames joined face-to-face,showing a characteristic helical pitch.

FIG. 11B shows a magnified view of a portion of the assembly of FIG.11A.

FIG. 12A shows a perspective view of a top portion of a two-part frameof the inventive subject matter.

FIG. 12B shows a perspective view of a base (bottom) portion of a twopart frame of the inventive subject matter.

FIG. 13A shows a perspective view of a container of the inventivesubject matter, showing interfaces for portions of a frame.

FIG. 13B shows a perspective view of a top of a container of theinventive subject matter.

FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B show an alternative container of the inventivesubject matter. FIG. 14A shows an example of a container with anexternal frame interface. FIG. 14B shows an example of a container withan external frame interface and an attached frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion provides many example embodiments of theinventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a singlecombination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter isconsidered to include all possible combinations of the disclosedelements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and asecond embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subjectmatter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A,B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

One should appreciate that the disclosed techniques provide modularframes useful for securing and orienting geometric solids (e.g., acrystal, gem, stone, etc.), where the frames can couple with at leastone of a base and one or more frames to form complex geometries that areuseful for the demonstration and investigation of the interactions ofsuch geometric solids with elements of their environment, either aloneor in combination with other geometric solids. As such, embodiments ofthe inventive concept are particularly suitable for educationalpurposes.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views of one embodiment of the inventivesubject matter arranged to secure a single geometric solid or crystal.The support 100 comprises a modular frame 110, and a base 150. Themodular frame 110 comprises four vertex saddles 130 and six edge struts140, and is configured to hold a tetrahedron geometric solid 120 (forexample, a quartz crystal, a magnet, a prism etc.), or other geometricsolid 120. Each vertex saddle 130 can be configured to receive a vertexof a geometric solid 120. Alternatively, a vertex saddle 130 can beconfigured to receive vertices of two or more geometric solids that arein contact with each other. Each edge strut 140 can be configured tocouple with one or more of the vertex saddles 130 to thereby form amodular frame 110. It is also contemplated that a portion of the modularframe 110 can be configured to support or at least partially enclose aculet of a geometric solid. In some embodiments, the modular frame 110can couple with one or more of other modular frames and a base orsupport 150 as illustrated. A base 150 can include a secondary supportacceptor 160 which allows a user to affix the base at a desired locationin a desired orientation via a secondary support (not shown). Such asecondary support can be rigid, pliant, or include both rigid and pliantportions. It should be noted that although the geometric solid 120 ispresented as having acute vertices, the disclosed devices and methodscan also apply to obtuse vertices. Edge struts and vertex saddles of theinventive concept can be formed from any suitable material including,but not limited to, polymers, metals, wood, ceramics, stone, and rubber,alone or in combination.

It should be appreciated that modular frame 110 provides severalbenefits. First, frame 110 securely holds a geometric solid 120 by oneor more of saddle(s) 130 fitting closely around the vertices of thegeometric solid 120, simultaneously providing both support andprotection for these easily damaged sites. Secondly, frame 110 furtherprotects the edges of a geometric solid 120 by placing one or morestrut(s) 140 over the edges of geometric solid 120. Thirdly, elements offrame 110 can easily be combined with other frames, saddles, or strutsto permit the construction of compound or super structures as discussedbelow. Finally, the elements of the modular frame 110 can easily beadded to or reconfigured, permitting the modular frame 110 toaccommodate solids with a variety of geometric shapes and sizes.

The term “educational geometry” should be construed broadly to mean anycommercially suitable geometrically shaped object including a quartz orother crystal, a metallic or semi-metallic geometric shaped object, amagnet, a lens, a prism, or a stone. In one embodiment of the inventiveconcept an educational geometry can include a regularly shapedcrystalline polyhedron (e.g., tetrahedron, cube, octahedron, etc.).

FIGS. 2A and 2B show perspective views of a base 250 of the inventivesubject matter. As shown, a base 250 can be configured to releasably orreversibly couple with edge struts of a frame via one or more couplers260, 262 along a portion of the base surface that are complementary toone or more couplers of a modular frame (e.g., of a strut or a saddle,etc.). Such a portion of the base surface can be any portion of an outersurface 270 or any portion of an interior surface 271. In someembodiments, the base can be a solid piece of material (i.e., lacking anaperture) only having an outer surface. FIG. 2B (from a differentperspective) shows that a base 250 can include indentations 280, 285that are sized and dimensioned to receive at least a portion of an edgeof a geometric solid or object. In such an embodiment, indentations 280,285 are each sized and dimensioned to each receive a truncated edge of ageometric (in this instance tetrahedral) solid. It should be appreciatedthat a base can comprise any suitable number of indentations of anysuitable size and dimension such that the base can receive and securegeometric solids of various sizes and shapes.

Coupler(s) 260 associated with a base 250 can include a portion of amulti-component fastener. In some embodiments of the inventive concept,couplers 260, 262 can each comprise a first component of a fastener, andan edge strut or vertex saddle can comprise a second, complementarycomponent of the fastener. For example, a coupler 262 associated with abase 250 can include a first protrusion 262A on a first side, and asecond protrusion on a second, opposing side (not shown in this view).Such protrusions can be configured to be complementary with a depressionof an edge strut, thereby permitting via a snap fit connection. It isfurther contemplated that a coupler 260 of base 250 can include oneportion of a three or more part fastener, wherein one coupler isconfigured to fit with at least two other complementary components.

Each coupler or complementary coupler can be located along any portionof a modular frame (e.g., saddle, strut) or base. All commerciallysuitable types of couplers and fasteners are contemplated includingthose shown in FIG. 2C-2E. For example, a fastener can comprisecomplementary magnetic couplers 201A, 201B, chemical couplers, hook/loopcouplers, ball-snap fasteners 201C, male and female couplers 201D, 201Ethat snap fit together, or any other commercially suitable fasteners andcouplers. As shown, a fastener can comprise a first coupler on a firstcomponent (e.g., a strut, base, saddle, etc.), and a second coupler on asecond component, wherein the second coupler is complementary to thefirst coupler.

FIG. 3 provides a detailed view of one way in which edge struts 340, 341can couple to one another and with first and second vertex saddles 330,331. For example, a first strut 340 can include a first coupler 361, asecond coupler 362, and a third coupler 363. As shown, the first coupler361 can include two protrusions on opposing sides of first strut 340that are sized and dimensioned to mate with first complementary coupler360 of first saddle 330, which comprises two depressions (e.g., holes,recesses, etc.). A second coupler 362 includes two protrusions, each ofwhich has a depression sized and dimensioned to mate with a fifthcoupler 366 of a second strut 341. A third coupler 363 can be coupled toa different saddle, strut, or a base of the inventive subject matter. Asecond strut 341 can similarly include a fourth coupler 364, a fifthcoupler 366, and a sixth coupler 367. Accordingly, a fourth coupler 364can include two protrusions on opposite sides of second strut 341 thatare sized and dimensioned to mate with a complementary coupler 365 of asecond saddle 331, which includes two depressions. A fifth coupler 366includes two depressions that are configured to mate with twoprotrusions on two separate prongs of the second coupler 362 via a snapfit, as described above.

It is further contemplated that first saddle 330 and first strut 340 caninclude a portion of a first sub-frame configured to hold a geometricsolid or shape, and a second saddle 331 and second strut 341 cancomprise a portion of a second sub-frame configured to hold a differentgeometric solid or shape. In some embodiments of the inventive conceptthese two sub-frames can be coupled together via second and fifthcouplers of first and second struts 340 and 341, respectively, toconstruct an extended modular frame structure (or superstructure) thatcan support a plurality of geometric solids or shapes (which can bedissimilar) at defined positions and orientations relative to oneanother.

It should be noted that while the above example focuses on fastenerscomprising a snap fit mechanism, all suitable fasteners arecontemplated, including, but not limited to, magnets, screws, clips,hook and loop fasteners, or adhesives.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate two views of an edge strut 440 of theinventive concept. It should be noted that the edge strut can includeboth a single-pronged coupler 462 that can be positioned adjacent tofirst side 470, and a double-pronged coupler 461 that can be positionedadjacent to second side 471. This permits a user to couple numeroussub-frames together via a coupling of edge struts. It is alsocontemplated that such sub-frames can be coupled to one another via (1)an edge strut of a first sub-frame and a vertex saddle of a secondsub-frame, (2) a vertex saddle of a first sub-frame and a vertex saddleof a second sub-frame, or (3) any other commercially suitable couplingof any other components of sub-frames. Further, the struts can includecouplers 464 at end portions, which can reversibly mate with the vertexsaddles of the inventive subject matter.

FIG. 4C provides another view of edge strut 440. Shown in this view, acoupler 462 on a first side 470 can include one or more protrusion(s)462A, which can in turn couple with a depression of another edge strutor a vertex saddle. Two pronged coupler 461 of second side 471 includestwo depressions on each prong (or one through-hole on each prong asshown), which are sized and dimensioned to accept a complementarycoupler of another edge strut or vertex saddle.

It should appreciated that a strut can include a through channel 480that is configured to cover at least a portion of an edge of a geometricsolid or shape, which greatly reduces the risk of chipping or othertypes of damage to the secured object. A through channel of theinventive subject matter can be of any suitable shape, size, and crosssection, including for example, a half-pipe, a trapezoid, a rectangle,or a triangle. In some embodiments of the inventive concept the crosssection of a through channel can vary along its length. Non-throughchannels are also contemplated wherein one or both edge portions cancomprise a stop.

FIGS. 5A and 5B present more views of one embodiment of a vertex saddle530 of the inventive subject matter. It is contemplated that such asaddle can include at least one opening 531 capable of receiving avertex or any other suitable portion of a geometric solid or shape.Although opening 531 is presented as having six sides configured toreceive a vertex of a tetrahedral solid or shape, one should appreciatethat opening 531 can have sides complementary to the vertex it isconfigured to receive. For example, a vertex configured to receive anoctahedron could include an opening 531 with eight sides (i.e., foursides for the faces or the vertex plus four sides for the edge struts).Saddle 530 can also include couplers 560, 566, 567, 568, which can beconfigured to allow a coupling of such saddle 530 with a complementarycoupler of a strut, a base, or a saddle of the inventive subject matter.FIG. 5C is another view of a vertex saddle 530, which provides a viewthat illustrates that at least some of the couplers can includethrough-holes configured to receive protrusions of complementarycouplers.

It should be appreciated that a modular frame of the inventive subjectmatter advantageously allows multiple sub-frames to be coupled with oneanother to create more complex geometries. An example is shown in FIG.6, which shows sub-frames 610, 611, 612, 613 coupled together to form alarger modular frame 600 as an extended or super structure. Suchextended or super structures permit a user to control relative positionand orientation of geometric solids or shapes secured by the individualsub-frames, and thereby determine or observe interactions between themor cumulative effects. Such a stable, yet readily reversible and easilyrearranged assembly is particularly advantageous for instructional use.As shown, sub-frame 610 is coupled to sub-frame 611 via edge struts610A, 611A. Similarly, sub-frames 611, 612 are coupled to one anothervia struts of sub-frames 611, 612; sub-frames 612, 614 are coupled toone another via struts of sub-frames 612, 614. In addition, sub-frames614, 610 are coupled to one another via their respective struts. Analternative super structure configuration is shown in FIG. 7, whichdepicts a modular frame 700 composed of a set of sub-frames 710, 711,712, 713, 714, 715, 716, 717 that can be configured to hold variousgeometric shapes having the same, similar, or dissimilar geometries.

In some embodiments, the geometric solids (for example, crystals,magnets, lenses, prisms, and so on) can include one or more additionalfeatures. In such an embodiment the geometric solids could, for example,have a preferred axis or pole (e.g., a C-axis, a Z-axis), which couldoptionally be used to influence how components of a modular frame is tobe arranged. More specifically, a crystalline solid could have apreferred axis based on its refractive index, chirality, crystal latticestructure, polarization orientation, magnetic moment, or other featuresrelated to the composition or internal arrangement of the geometricsolid. In some embodiments the geometric solid can include an indication(e.g., a marking, dot, indicia, etc.) that informs a user of theorientation of such a preferred axis or pole relative otherorientations. Further, especially in embodiments where the geometricsolid includes a crystal, such a crystal can include additional indicia,including a serial number, a name, a manufacturer, a logo, anorientation relative to a parent crystal, a location relative to aparent crystal or block from which the crystal was cut, or otherinformation.

Modular frames of the inventive subject matter can comprise any suitablenumber of sub-frames, struts, saddles, couplers, fasteners and bases.For example, a modular frame can comprise: 0, 1, 5, 10, 15, or even 20or more sub-frames; 0, 1, 5, 10, 15, 25 or even 50 or more struts; 0, 1,5, 10, 15, 20 or even 50 or more saddles; 0, 1, 15, 20, 35, or even 100or more couples; and 0, 1, 5, 10, 15, or even 20 or more bases.

FIG. 8 shows another aspect of the inventive subject matter comprising acontainer (800) configured to at least partially enclose at least one ofthe geometric solids or modular frames of the inventive subject matter.In some embodiments, the container 800 can include a lid 820 and bottom810, one or both of which can include a conductive material (e.g.,copper, silver, aluminum, conductive polymer, etc.). In some embodimentsof the inventive concept such conductive material can cover all or partof the lid 820 or bottom 810 of the container 800. For example, theconductive material can cover the entire exterior surfaces of the lid820 and bottom 810.

In some embodiments, the outer surface of the container 800 can bepartially or completely formed or covered by conductive plates 813 or bya conductive mesh 815. When such a container 800 is partially orcompletely closed, the container 800 can advantageously provide aFaraday cage around at least a portion of the contents of the container800. Still further, the container 800 can include or be coupled to oneor more circuits 830 configured to detect electromagnetic energy via theFaraday cage. In some embodiments of the inventive concept such detectedelectromagnetic energy can be encoded as digital data and subsequentlycommunicated 835 over a network 850 via a wired or wireless connection.Such a network 850 can communicate 845 such digital data to one or morelocal or remote computing device(s) 840 (e.g., a mobile phone, a tablet,a laptop computer, a desktop computer, etc.), allowing one or more usersto rapidly and conveniently access such data, advantageously supportingdistance learning activities.

Other embodiments of the inventive subject matter include alternative oradditional modular frames and modular devices in which frame elementsand frames are combined.

Some embodiments of modular frames could include a first sub-framecomponent and a second sub-frame component, wherein the first componentcomprises one or more vertex saddles, frame arms and couplers. Thesecond component could comprise couplers complementary to those of thefirst component, such that the first and second components couldreleasably mate with one another. In some embodiments, complementarycouplers compose a clasp. In embodiments where modular devices havingtwo or more modular frames are provided, two or more frames having astructure as described above could be coupled to one another via one ormore clips. Two or more of the modular frames could each comprise one ormore clip receiving portions that are sized and dimensioned to receiveat least a portion of a shared clip. The clip receiving portions couldbe located along any suitable portions of a modular frame, including forexample, a vertex saddle or a frame arm. The clip could comprisecouplers (e.g., magnets, recesses, protrusions, snaps, balls, etc.) thatare complementary to couplers of the clip receiving portions. Where aclip comprises protruding portions as couplers, it is contemplated thatthe clip could comprise a first width (e.g., a portion of the cliplacking protruding portions) and a second width (e.g., a portion of theclip including protruding portions), and that the first width could besmaller than a width of a clip receiving portion, while the second widthcould be greater than the width of the clip receiving portion. Where aclip comprises recessed portions as couplers, it is contemplated thatthe clip could comprise a first width (e.g., a portion of the clipincluding recessed portions) and a second width (e.g., a portion of theclip lacking recessed portions), and the first width could be smallerthan a width of a clip receiving portion (e.g., where complementaryprotrusions would be), while the second width could be greater than thewidth of the clip receiving portion where complementary protrusionswould be.

An example of an embodiment of a modular device is depicted in FIGS.9A-9E. FIG. 9A shows a modular frame 900A assembled from components thatinclude a vertex saddle (also referred to herein as vertex portion orvertex) 910, which can be shaped to support and protect a truncatedvertex or other angled terminus of a geometric solid, and which extendsinto one or more frame arm 930 portions that are configured to protectan edge portion of a geometric solid. It should be appreciated that avertex saddle could be sized and dimensioned to completely cover avertex of a geometric solid, or could be sized and dimensioned topartially surround a vertex of the geometric solid, leaving a portionexposed. Frame arms 930 of adjacent vertex portions 910 can be joinedusing a clip 940. Additionally or alternatively, frame arm 930 could becoupled with a frame arm or other portion of a second modular frame (notshown in FIG. 9A). Two or more frame arms 930 or vertex saddles 910could define a perimeter of a face 920 that exposes a portion of facetof the enclosed geometric solid. It should be appreciated that theconfiguration of the frame 900A and the face 920 could be defined by theangles and dimensions of the frame arm 930 relative to the vertexportions 910. Although depicted as being assembled from identicalvertex/frame arm components, in some embodiments the frame can beconstructed from different vertex/frame arm components, permitting thesupport and orientation of elongated or even asymmetrical geometricsolids.

As shown in FIG. 9B, such modular frames can be joined to form higherorder structures. In such embodiments of the inventive subject matterthe modular frames can be joined in different ways. FIG. 9B depicts aside view of two frames of simplified construction joined edge-to-edge.FIG. 9C shows a magnified view of such an assembly, and demonstrates theuse of a clip 940 to join the two frames. Such a clip 940 can beidentical to those that could be used (in some embodiments) to assemblethe simplified frame. Alternatively, in some embodiments of theinventive subject matter a clip used to join modular frames can bedifferent from those that could be used (in some embodiments) toassemble the modular frames. As shown in FIG. 9C, clip 940 could besized and dimensioned to (1) fit snugly into a clip receiving portion,and (2) releasably lock two frames in an arm to arm configuration.Moreover, the clip could (3) releasably lock two frames in a face toface configuration, as shown in FIG. 9E. Where an arm to armconfiguration is used (e.g., FIG. 9C), a clip receiving portion of afirst frame could receive an end of two different clips, and a clipreceiving portion of a second frame could receive an opposite end of twodifferent clips. Where a face to face configuration is used (e.g., FIG.9E), a clip receiving portion of a first frame could receive an end ofone clip, while a clip receiving portion of a second frame receives anopposite end of the clip. A different clip receiving portion of thefirst frame could receive an end of a second clip, while a differentclip receiving portion of the second frame receives an opposite end ofthe second clip. The two different clips used in a face to faceconfiguration allows a long edge 912 of a first frame to lock in placealigned with a long edge 914 of the second frame. FIG. 9D depicts a topview of two modular frames joined edge to edge, showing the relativeorientations of exposed faces 920 of the joined modular frames.

As shown in FIG. 9E, modular frames of the inventive subject matter canalso be joined at their faces. FIG. 9E also demonstrates a way in whicha clip 940 can fit within a clip interface 945 of the simplified modularframe. Such a clip interface 945 can include multiple insets or holesthat provide sites that secure the clip 940 within the clip interface945 and permit simple and secure joining of both simplified modularframe components and assembly of multiple modular frames. It iscontemplated that clip 940 could be used in clip interface (alsoreferred to herein as clip receiving portion or clip acceptor portion)945, and could be similar or identical in shape and size to the clipinterface (here a recessed portion of frame arm 930. Additionally oralternatively, clip 940 could be used to couple a first frame with asecond frame. As shown, clip 940 comprises a first side havingprotrusions and a second side having protrusions. The protrusions of afirst side couples with recesses of a first frame's clip interface, anda second side couples with recesses of a second frame's clip interface.

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B show exemplary embodiments of clips of theinventive subject matter. Clips (and any other frame components) can bemade from any suitable material, including for example, a metal (forexample, aluminum, steel, spring steel, and titanium), syntheticpolymers (for example, nylon, polypropylene, and cross linkedpolyethylene), natural polymers (for example, rubber, latex, vulcanizedrubber), or combinations of these. FIG. 10A depicts a spring clip 1000A,in which a spring 1020 provides a force that impels a ball 1010 orsimilar component into a clip interface (or a portion thereof). In orderto permit joining of modular frames and modular frame components aspring clip 100A can support two or more such spring/ball assembliesjoined by a bridge 1050. In some embodiments the bridge 1050 can beflexible in order to facilitate installation of the spring clip 1000A.It should be appreciated that a spring/ball assembly could alternativelyor additionally be provided on a frame of the inventive subject matter,and that a complementary clip could comprise a recessed portion or hole.An alternative embodiment of a clip is shown in FIG. 10B, which depictsa tension clip 1000B. A tension clip 1000B utilizes a protrusion 1030that is mounted on or formed into a flexible arm 1040, which providesforce that impels the protrusion 1030 of the clip (or a portionthereof). A flexible arm can be made of thin material (for example, 20mm, 15 mm, 10 mm, 8 mm, 5 mm, or even 0.5 mm or less in thickness) inorder to achieve the desired flexibility. In order to permit joining ofmodular frames and modular frame components a tension clip 1000B caninclude multiple flexible arm/protrusion assemblies joined by a bridge1050. Such a bridge 1050 can be flexible in order to facilitateinstallation of a tension clip 1000B. In a preferred embodiment of theinventive subject matter, spring clips are used in areas subject tofrequent disassembly and reassembly, whereas tension clips are used inareas that are rarely disassembled.

It should be appreciated that the ability to join multiple simplifiedmodular frames in a variety of ways permits the construction of a widevariety of higher order structures, advantageously allowing them to beused in a variety of educational roles. While such higher orderstructures permit studies of the interactions between geometric solids,they also permit demonstration of the effects of local geometry on theoverall shape of such higher order structures. An example of this isshown in FIG. 11A, which depicts a structure formed by the face-to-facejoining of ten simplified modular frames.

The helical structure 1100 thus produced can be used, for example, todemonstrate the additive effects angled subunits in nature, such as theDNA helix, RNA hairpin structures, and alpha helices observed inproteins. It should be appreciated that frames with differentgeometries, for example representing different chemical subunits, can beincluded to aid in visualizing the effects in naturally occurringpolymers. As shown in FIG. 11B, which provides a magnified view of aportion of the structure shown in FIG. 11A, the angles between adjacentmodular frames 1110, 1120, and 1130 are readily observable, which maynot be the case in conventional molecular representations.

As illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B, a “face to face” joining of modularframes configured to hold a substantially tetrahedral geometric solidcould comprise a joining wherein a long edge 1100.1 of a first frame'svertex saddle abuts a long edge 1100.5 of a second frame's vertexsaddle. In such embodiments, an “edge to edge” joining of modular framesconfigured to hold a substantially tetrahedral geometric solid couldalternatively comprise a joining wherein a short edge 1100.2 of a firstframe's vertex saddle abuts a short edge 1100.6 of a second frame'svertex saddle.

Yet another embodiment of the inventive subject matter is a two partmodular frame. Such a modular frame embodiment simplifies assembly andcan be of particular utility in a home setting. FIG. 12A depicts anexemplary top portion 1200A of such a two part modular frame. As shown,the top portion 1200A can include multiple faces 1230 as defined byframe arms 1240, and also include one or more clip interfaces 1220 thatpermit joining to other modular frames. The top portion 1200A can alsoinclude one or more clasps 1210 or other couplers (e.g., couplerscomplementary to a bottom portion's couplers). These clasps 1210 couldprovide attachment to a bottom portion such as is depicted in FIG. 12B.Top portion 1200A or any other portion of a modular frame could comprisea rubber, silicon, foam, or other padding 1245 material configured to atleast one of (1) prevent a sliding of a geometric solid within a frame,and (2) protect a geometric solid from damage. Where included, thepadding could be provided in portions of an inner surface of a frame.Additionally or alternatively, the padding could be provided as a liningto an interior surface of an entire frame. As shown, the bottom portion1200B can include at least one bottom catch 1250 (or other coupler),which serves as an interaction site for the clasp 1210 of the topportion 1200A of the two part modular frame. It should be appreciatedthat a modular frame of the inventive subject matter could comprise morethan two portions or components. For example, a modular frame couldcomprise a top portion, bottom portion, and one or more mid-portions. Insuch embodiments, a top portion could include couplers complementary tothose of a first mid-portion, the first mid-portion could comprisecouplers complementary to those of a second mid-portion, and the secondmid-portion could comprise couplers complementary to those of a bottomportion.

The bottom portion 1200B can also include one or more frame arms 1240and clip interfaces 1220 that permit attachment to other modular frames.Although the two-part frame depicted shows a top portion with multiplefaces and a vertexes and a bottom portion with a single face and novertex, it should be appreciated that the portions of a two-part modularframe can each have multiple faces and one or more vertexes, as isconvenient for manufacture and assembly.

Assemblies of modular frames of the inventive subject matter canincorporate modular frames of different shape, dimension, and design.For example, a modular device could comprise multiple modular frameshaving the same or different shapes, dimensions or designs. Similarly,in assemblies that include clips, the same or different clip designs canbe used in different portions of the assembly.

The modular nature of the modular frames and their method of joiningadvantageously can provide means for securing modular frames of theinventive subject matter to other modular frames and objects other thanother modular frames. For example, it is contemplated that a modularframe of the inventive subject matter could couple with a container(e.g., a box or a water bottle, etc.) that comprises a couplerconfigured to releasably couple with a coupler of the modular frame. Insome embodiments, the container could comprise a bottom portion of amodular frame configured to releasably couple with a top portion of amodular frame. In some embodiments, the container could comprise a clipconfigured to releasably couple with a clip receiving portion of amodular frame.

FIG. 13A shows a container or box 1300 of the inventive subject matterthat includes a base 1320 and a cover 1310 that are configured to securea geometric solid therein, with or without being placed in a modularframe. In the example shown, the cover 1310 includes a crystal interface1330 that is sized and dimensioned to mate with a truncated vertex ofthe crystal. Additionally or alternatively, interface 1330 couldcomprise a coupler or otherwise conform to all or part of a vertexsaddle or frame arm of a modular frame. A more detailed view of anexemplary top can be seen in FIG. 13B. Similarly, the base 1320 caninclude a base interface or pedestal 1340 that interfaces a face of thecrystal and holds the crystal in place. Alternatively or additionallythe base interface 1340 can include modular frame components that areconfigured to removably couple with modular frame partially enclosingthe crystal. For example, the base interface 1340 can include all orpart of a bottom portion of a part modular frame as depicted in FIG.12B, allowing it to be joined to a top portion of a two part modularframe as depicted in FIG. 12A. Similarly, in other embodiments a baseinterface 1340 can incorporate one or more clip interfaces.

One or both of the cover 1310 and base 1320 could include electricalconnections 1335 to the geometric solid, preferably on the Z-axis of thegeometric solid. In some embodiments, a container of the inventivesubject matter could be made of ceramic and be metal plated (e.g.,copper with gold flash, etc.). The inside 1336 of the container could beisolated electrically from the outside 1337 of the container. Theoutside surfaces of the cover 1310 and base 1320 could be connectedelectrically. Additionally or alternatively the inside surface of thecover 1310 and base 1320 could be connected electrically. A portion ofthe geometric solid in the container could be connected to an outersurface of the container, while a different portion of the geometricsolid could be connected to an inside surface of the box. It should beappreciated that an inside or outside portion of the cover, an inside oroutside portion of the base, or any portion of a crystal could beelectrically connected in any suitable manner.

Similarly, the attachment sites utilized in the assembly of modularframes of the inventive subject matter can be used to affix such modularframes to the external surface of a suitable object, for example acontainer suitable for storing fluid (e.g., a water bottle, etc.). Anexample of this is shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, which depicts a container1410 that includes a modular frame interface 1420. Such a modular frameinterface can, for example, provide attachment to a face of a modularframe of the inventive concept. Such an embodiment is shown in FIG. 14B,which depicts a modular frame 1430 secured to a container 1410 via aframe interface 1420. Such a frame interface 1420 can include componentsof a modular frame, for example a clip interface or a bottom portion ofa two part modular frame, in order to simplify attachment of the modularframe. It should be appreciated that the container could be configuredto affix a modular frame to an internal surface of the container.

Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth hereinshould be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints andopen-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commerciallypractical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered asinclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates thecontrary.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow,the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the descriptionherein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term“coupled to” is intended to include both direct coupling (in which twoelements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirectcoupling (in which at least one additional element is located betweenthe two elements). Therefore, the terms “coupled to” and “coupled with”are used synonymously.

It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many moremodifications besides those already described are possible withoutdeparting from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subjectmatter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of theappended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification andthe claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possiblemanner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises”and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements,components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that thereferenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized,or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are notexpressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at leastone of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C . . . andN, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from thegroup, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

What is claimed is:
 1. A frame configured to hold a geometric solidhaving a vertex and an edge, the frame comprising: a set of vertexsaddles comprising a first vertex saddle that is sized and dimensionedto receive the vertex of the geometric solid; a set of edge strutscomprising a first edge strut that is sized and dimensioned to cover atleast a portion of the edge of the geometric solid; wherein a firstportion of the first vertex saddle is disposed on a first framecomponent; wherein a second portion of the first vertex saddle isdisposed on a second frame component; and wherein the first framecomponent is configured to removably couple with the second framecomponent to form at least a portion of the frame.
 2. The frame of claim1, wherein the set of vertex saddles comprises a second vertex saddle,and wherein a first portion of the second vertex saddle is disposed onthe first frame component and a second portion of the second vertexsaddle is disposed on the second frame component.
 3. The frame of claim1, wherein a first portion of the first edge strut is disposed on thefirst frame component, and a second portion of the first edge strut isdisposed on the second frame component.
 4. The frame of claim 3, whereinthe first portion of the first edge strut and the second portion of thefirst edge strut form the first edge strut.
 5. The frame of claim 1,wherein the first edge strut comprises a magnetic fastener that isconfigured to removably couple with a second magnetic fastener of asecond frame.
 6. The frame of claim 1, wherein the set of edge strutscomprises a second edge strut that is partially disposed on the firstframe component.
 7. The frame of claim 1, wherein the first vertexsaddle comprises an opening.
 8. The frame of claim 1, wherein the firstand second frame components are removably coupled to one another via aclip.
 9. The frame of claim 1, wherein the geometric solid is atruncated and chamfered tetrahedron crystal.
 10. The frame of claim 1,wherein the first frame component comprises a face that is partiallyformed by the first vertex saddle and the first edge strut.
 11. Theframe of claim 10, wherein the face has a hexagonal shape.
 12. A frameconfigured to hold a geometric solid having a vertex and an edge, theframe comprising: a first frame component; a second frame componentconfigured to removably couple with the first frame component to form atleast a portion of the frame; a first vertex saddle sized anddimensioned to receive the vertex of the geometric solid; a first edgestrut sized and dimensioned to cover at least a portion of the edge ofthe geometric solid; and wherein a first portion of the first vertexsaddle and the first edge strut is disposed on the first framecomponent, and a second portion of the first vertex saddle and the firstedge strut is disposed on the second frame component.
 13. The frame ofclaim 12, further comprising a second vertex saddle having a firstportion disposed on the first frame component and a second portiondisposed on the second frame component.
 14. The frame of claim 13,further comprising a second edge strut that is partially disposed on thefirst frame component.
 15. The frame of claim 12, wherein the firstportion of the first edge strut and the second portion of the first edgestrut form the first edge strut.
 16. The frame of claim 12, wherein thefirst edge strut comprises a magnetic fastener that is configured toremovably couple with a second magnetic fastener of a second frame. 17.The frame of claim 12, wherein the first vertex saddle comprises anopening.
 18. The frame of claim 12, wherein the first and second framecomponents are removably coupled to one another via a clip.
 19. Theframe of claim 12, wherein the first frame component comprises a facethat is partially formed by first vertex saddle and the first edgestrut.
 20. The frame of claim 12, wherein the geometric solid is atruncated and chamfered tetrahedron crystal.